Action layouts and predefined field values
Key Takeaway
A predefined field value fills in a field automatically, so the field can come off the action layout. A required field can come off only if it has a predefined field value, so set the value first and then remove the field.
An action layout controls which fields a user sees when they run a quick action, much like a page layout controls fields on a record page. A predefined field value fills in a field automatically when the action runs, which keeps data consistent and makes records faster to create. You can then remove that field from the layout, so the action stays short and fast.
How an action layout works
An action layout works like a page layout, but for a quick action. When you create an action, Salesforce fills its layout with a default set of fields. You can add, remove, or reorder those fields so users see only what they need.
The first time you open the layout of an action you created, these fields are already on it:
- The target object's default fields
- Standard required fields
- Any custom universally required fields
The fields an action needs depend on its job. For example, a Post action needs just one large text area, but an object-related Create action must include multiple fields, or Salesforce can't create the record.
There is no hard limit on the number of fields in an action layout. Salesforce recommends a maximum of 8 fields, and more than 20 fields can severely impact user efficiency.